A display device includes a substrate, a first inner bank and a second inner bank on the substrate and spaced apart from each other, a first electrode on the first inner bank and a second electrode on the second inner bank, and a light emitting element between the first inner bank and the second inner bank, the light emitting element being electrically coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the first inner bank comprises a first side surface facing the second inner bank, the second inner bank comprises a second side surface facing the first side surface, and the first side surface and the second side surface are respectively recessed into the first inner bank and the second inner bank, to have a curved shape.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A display device comprising: a substrate; a first inner bank and a second inner bank, each on the substrate, and spaced apart from each other; a first electrode on the first inner bank and a second electrode on the second inner bank; and a light emitting element between the first inner bank and the second inner bank, the light emitting element being electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the first inner bank comprises a first side surface facing the second inner bank, the second inner bank comprises a second side surface facing the first side surface, and the first side surface and the second side surface are respectively recessed into the first inner bank and the second inner bank, to have a curved shape.
This invention relates to a display device with an improved light emitting element structure. The device addresses issues in conventional displays where light emission uniformity and efficiency are compromised due to sharp edges or abrupt transitions in the electrode and bank structures. The display device includes a substrate with two inner banks spaced apart from each other. Each bank has a side surface facing the other, and these surfaces are recessed inward with a curved shape rather than being straight or vertical. This curved recess helps to reduce light leakage and improves light extraction efficiency. The first and second electrodes are positioned on the respective banks, and a light emitting element is placed between them, electrically connected to both electrodes. The curved side surfaces of the banks enhance the uniformity of light emission by minimizing reflections and scattering at the edges, leading to better display performance. The design also helps in maintaining precise alignment of the light emitting element while ensuring reliable electrical connections. The overall structure aims to improve display quality by optimizing light distribution and efficiency.
2. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first side surface of the first inner bank comprises a first end portion contacting a lower surface of the first inner bank and a second end portion contacting an upper surface of the first inner bank, and the first side surface is below a reference line connecting the first end portion and the second end portion.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing structural improvements in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays to enhance performance and reliability. The invention focuses on the design of inner banks within the display, which are used to define pixel regions and support the deposition of organic materials. A common issue in OLED displays is the formation of defects or irregularities in the deposited layers, which can degrade display quality and lifespan. The invention addresses this by optimizing the shape of the side surfaces of the inner banks. The display device includes a first inner bank with a first side surface that has a first end portion contacting the lower surface of the bank and a second end portion contacting the upper surface. The side surface is positioned below a reference line connecting these two end portions, creating a concave or recessed profile. This design helps control the flow and deposition of organic materials during manufacturing, reducing the risk of defects such as short circuits or uneven layers. The improved bank structure ensures better uniformity in the deposited layers, leading to higher display quality and longer operational life. The invention is particularly useful in high-resolution OLED displays where precise material deposition is critical.
3. The display device of claim 2 , wherein a slope the first side surface varies from the lower surface toward the upper surfaces of the first inner bank, and a slope of the second side surface varies from a lower surface toward an upper surface of the second inner bank.
This invention relates to a display device with a specific structure for inner banks, which are raised features on a substrate used in display manufacturing. The problem addressed is improving the uniformity and reliability of display elements, such as organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), by controlling the deposition of materials during fabrication. The invention focuses on the shape of the inner banks, which are used to define pixel regions. The first and second inner banks each have side surfaces with varying slopes. The slope of the first side surface changes from the lower surface toward the upper surface of the first inner bank, and similarly, the slope of the second side surface changes from the lower surface toward the upper surface of the second inner bank. This variation in slope helps control the deposition of organic or other functional layers, ensuring consistent thickness and coverage across the display. The varying slopes may be designed to prevent material accumulation or defects, such as short circuits, while maintaining precise alignment of the deposited layers. The overall structure improves display performance by enhancing pixel uniformity and reducing manufacturing defects.
4. The display device of claim 3 , wherein a first inclination angle between the lower surface of the first inner bank and a line tangent to the first end portion is smaller than a second inclination angle between the upper surface of the first inner bank and a line tangent to the second end portion.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the structural design of inner banks within such devices to improve performance. The problem being solved involves optimizing the geometry of inner banks to enhance display quality, such as reducing light leakage or improving uniformity. The display device includes a substrate with a plurality of pixels, each containing a light-emitting element. A first inner bank is formed on the substrate, defining a pixel area. The first inner bank has a lower surface and an upper surface, each with distinct inclination angles relative to tangent lines at their respective end portions. The lower surface forms a first inclination angle with a tangent line at the first end portion, while the upper surface forms a second inclination angle with a tangent line at the second end portion. The first inclination angle is smaller than the second inclination angle, creating an asymmetric profile. This design helps control the deposition of organic layers during manufacturing, ensuring precise material placement and reducing defects. The asymmetric angles also improve light extraction efficiency and reduce crosstalk between adjacent pixels. The invention may be applied in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays or other emissive display technologies where pixel isolation and uniformity are critical.
5. The display device of claim 4 , wherein a sum of the first inclination angle and a fourth inclination angle between the upper surface of the first inner bank and the first side surface is smaller than 180 degrees.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the structural design of inner banks within display panels to improve manufacturing efficiency and display quality. The problem solved involves optimizing the geometry of inner banks to prevent defects during the manufacturing process, particularly in the formation of organic layers in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays. The display device includes a substrate with a first inner bank formed on its surface. The first inner bank has an upper surface and a first side surface, where the first side surface is inclined at a first inclination angle relative to the substrate. The upper surface of the first inner bank is inclined at a second inclination angle relative to the substrate, and the first side surface is inclined at a third inclination angle relative to the upper surface. The invention specifies that the sum of the first inclination angle and a fourth inclination angle (between the upper surface and the first side surface) must be less than 180 degrees. This geometric constraint ensures proper deposition of organic materials during manufacturing, preventing defects such as film discontinuities or uneven thickness. The design also facilitates precise alignment of layers, enhancing display uniformity and reliability. The invention is particularly useful in high-resolution OLED displays where precise material deposition is critical.
6. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first side surface and the second side surface are respectively recessed toward midpoints of lower portions of the first inner bank and the second inner bank to have a curved shape.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the challenge of improving the structural integrity and aesthetic design of display panels, particularly in flexible or foldable displays. The device includes a display panel with a first inner bank and a second inner bank, which are structural elements that support and protect the display panel's edges. The first and second side surfaces of the display panel are recessed inward toward the midpoints of the lower portions of the first and second inner banks, forming a curved shape. This design reduces stress concentration at the edges, enhancing durability during bending or folding. The curved recesses also improve the display's visual appeal by creating a smoother transition between the display panel and the inner banks. The inner banks themselves may be formed by etching or other material removal processes, ensuring precise shaping to accommodate the recessed side surfaces. This configuration is particularly useful in flexible or foldable displays where edge protection and smooth bending are critical. The invention aims to balance structural robustness with design elegance, addressing common issues in modern display technologies.
7. The display device of claim 1 , further comprising a first planarization layer on the substrate, wherein the first inner bank and the second inner bank are directly on the first planarization layer.
A display device includes a substrate with a first planarization layer applied to its surface. The device features a first inner bank and a second inner bank, both directly positioned on the first planarization layer. These banks are part of a structure that defines pixel regions, ensuring proper alignment and separation of light-emitting elements. The planarization layer provides a smooth surface to enhance uniformity and performance of the display. The inner banks may be used to partition different functional layers, such as organic light-emitting layers, within each pixel. This configuration improves pixel definition and prevents cross-talk between adjacent pixels, leading to higher display quality. The planarization layer also helps mitigate defects caused by substrate irregularities, ensuring consistent layer deposition. The overall structure is designed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the display device, particularly in applications requiring high-resolution and uniform light emission.
8. The display device of claim 7 , wherein a portion of the first planarization located between the first inner bank and the second inner bank is recessed, and the display device further comprises a first insulating layer directly on the recessed portion of the first planarization layer.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing structural improvements in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays to enhance performance and reliability. The problem being solved involves managing the interface between organic light-emitting layers and underlying layers to prevent defects such as short circuits or material degradation, which can occur due to uneven surfaces or improper layer alignment. The display device includes a substrate with a first planarization layer that provides a smooth surface for subsequent layers. A first inner bank and a second inner bank are formed on the planarization layer, defining a region where an organic light-emitting layer will be deposited. A portion of the first planarization layer between these banks is recessed, creating a depression. A first insulating layer is then directly deposited onto this recessed portion, filling the depression and ensuring a uniform surface for the organic light-emitting layer. This recessed structure helps prevent material accumulation or misalignment during deposition, reducing defects and improving device longevity. The insulating layer also acts as a barrier, protecting the underlying layers from contamination or damage during subsequent processing steps. The overall design ensures better adhesion and uniformity of the organic light-emitting layer, leading to improved display performance and reliability.
9. The display device of claim 8 , wherein a height of the first inner bank is smaller than a distance from a lower surface of the first insulating layer to an upper surface of the first inner bank.
A display device includes a substrate with a first insulating layer and a first inner bank formed on the substrate. The first inner bank has a height that is smaller than the distance from the lower surface of the first insulating layer to the upper surface of the first inner bank. This configuration ensures proper spacing and alignment within the display structure. The device may also include a second insulating layer formed over the first insulating layer and the first inner bank, with the second insulating layer having a first opening that exposes a portion of the first inner bank. A first electrode is formed on the first inner bank and extends into the first opening, while a second electrode is formed on the second insulating layer. The first and second electrodes are electrically insulated from each other. The first inner bank may be formed from an organic material, and the first insulating layer may be an inorganic material. The device may further include a light-emitting layer formed on the first electrode, with the first inner bank defining a pixel region. This structure improves pixel definition and electrical isolation in display panels, particularly in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays. The design ensures precise alignment of conductive layers while maintaining insulation between adjacent electrodes.
10. The display device of claim 8 , wherein the light emitting element is lower than the lower surface of the first inner bank.
A display device includes a substrate with a pixel region and a peripheral region. The pixel region has a light emitting element, such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED), and a first inner bank surrounding the light emitting element. The first inner bank defines a pixel opening where the light emitting element is formed. The light emitting element is positioned lower than the lower surface of the first inner bank, ensuring proper light emission and preventing defects. The peripheral region includes a second inner bank and a third inner bank, which are stacked and define a peripheral opening. A conductive layer, such as a common electrode, extends from the pixel region into the peripheral region, covering the second and third inner banks. The conductive layer is electrically connected to a connection electrode in the peripheral region, which is formed on the third inner bank. The connection electrode is electrically connected to a power supply line, ensuring stable power distribution. The stacked inner banks in the peripheral region provide structural support and electrical insulation, while the lower positioning of the light emitting element improves display performance. This design enhances reliability and efficiency in display manufacturing.
11. The display device of claim 1 , further comprising an outer bank spaced apart from the first inner bank and the second inner bank, the outer bank surrounding the first inner bank and the second inner bank, wherein a height of the outer bank is greater than that of the first inner bank.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the challenge of improving display performance by optimizing the structure of banks used in display panels. The device includes a substrate with a first inner bank and a second inner bank, which define a pixel region. The first and second inner banks are spaced apart and may be used to partition different regions of the display, such as sub-pixels or separate pixel areas. To enhance display uniformity and prevent defects, an outer bank is added, spaced apart from and surrounding the first and second inner banks. The outer bank has a height greater than that of the first inner bank, which helps contain materials during manufacturing processes like inkjet printing or deposition, reducing overflow and improving precision. The outer bank also provides structural support and may aid in defining the boundaries of the display area more effectively. This configuration ensures better alignment and isolation of the pixel regions, leading to improved display quality and reliability. The invention is particularly useful in high-resolution displays where precise material deposition is critical.
12. The display device of claim 11 , further comprising: a first contact electrode contacting an end portion of the light emitting element and the first electrode; and a second contact electrode contacting another end portion of the light emitting element and the second electrode.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically those incorporating light-emitting elements such as organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). The problem addressed is improving electrical contact and reliability in such devices, particularly where light-emitting elements are connected to electrodes. The invention provides a display device with a first contact electrode that electrically connects an end portion of a light-emitting element to a first electrode, and a second contact electrode that connects the opposite end of the light-emitting element to a second electrode. This ensures stable electrical conduction between the light-emitting element and the electrodes, enhancing device performance and longevity. The light-emitting element is positioned between the first and second electrodes, which may be part of a pixel structure in an active matrix display. The contact electrodes improve adhesion and reduce resistance at the interfaces, addressing issues like delamination or poor conductivity that can degrade display quality. The invention is particularly useful in high-resolution or flexible displays where reliable electrical connections are critical. The configuration ensures efficient charge injection into the light-emitting element, improving brightness uniformity and operational stability.
13. A display device comprising: a first substrate; a bank layer on the first substrate and comprising a groove formed by recessing at least a portion of the bank layer, and a first inner bank and a second inner bank spaced apart from each other with respect to the groove; a first electrode on the first inner bank, a second electrode on the second inner bank; and a light emitting element in the groove and electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein a first side surface of the first inner bank and a second side surface of the second inner bank form sides of the groove, and the first side surface and the second side surface are respectively recessed into the first inner bank and the second inner bank, to have a curved shape.
The display device addresses challenges in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display manufacturing, particularly in improving light emission efficiency and reliability by optimizing the structure of the bank layer that defines pixel regions. The device includes a first substrate with a bank layer that forms a groove by recessing at least part of the bank layer. The groove is bounded by a first inner bank and a second inner bank, which are spaced apart and have curved side surfaces. A first electrode is positioned on the first inner bank, and a second electrode is on the second inner bank. A light-emitting element, such as an OLED, is placed in the groove and electrically connected to both electrodes. The curved side surfaces of the inner banks reduce stress concentrations and improve material deposition uniformity during fabrication, enhancing device performance and longevity. This design also facilitates better alignment of the light-emitting element within the groove, improving pixel definition and reducing defects. The overall structure ensures efficient charge injection and light extraction while maintaining structural integrity.
14. The display device of claim 13 , wherein the first side surface of the first inner bank comprises a first end portion contacting a lower surface of the first inner bank and a second end portion contacting an upper surface of the first inner bank, and the first side surface is below a reference line connecting the first end portion and the second end portion.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing structural improvements in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays to enhance performance and reliability. The technology focuses on the design of inner banks within the display, which are used to define pixel regions and support the deposition of organic materials. A common issue in OLED displays is the formation of defects or irregularities in the deposited layers, which can degrade display quality and lifespan. The invention addresses this by optimizing the shape of the first inner bank's side surface to minimize such defects. The first inner bank has a side surface with a first end portion contacting its lower surface and a second end portion contacting its upper surface. The side surface is designed to be below a reference line connecting these two end portions, creating a concave or recessed profile. This geometry helps control the flow and deposition of organic materials during manufacturing, reducing the risk of defects such as voids or uneven layers. The improved structure also enhances the uniformity of the emitted light, leading to better display performance. The invention is particularly useful in high-resolution OLED displays where precision in material deposition is critical.
15. The display device of claim 14 , wherein a depth of the groove is smaller than a height of the first inner bank.
A display device includes a substrate with a pixel region and a non-pixel region. The device has a first inner bank and a second inner bank defining a groove in the pixel region, where the groove contains a light-emitting layer. The first inner bank has a height, and the groove has a depth that is smaller than this height. The device also includes a first outer bank and a second outer bank surrounding the pixel region, with the first outer bank having a height greater than the second outer bank. The first inner bank is positioned between the first outer bank and the second outer bank, while the second inner bank is positioned between the second outer bank and the pixel region. The light-emitting layer is formed within the groove, and the device further includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a functional layer between the electrodes. The functional layer includes the light-emitting layer. The first outer bank and the second outer bank are spaced apart to form an opening, and the first inner bank and the second inner bank are spaced apart to form the groove. The first inner bank and the second inner bank are positioned within the opening. The first outer bank has a height greater than the second outer bank, and the groove has a depth smaller than the height of the first inner bank. This configuration ensures proper containment and alignment of the light-emitting layer within the pixel region, improving display uniformity and performance.
16. The display device of claim 13 , further comprising: a first interlayer insulating layer between the first substrate and the bank layer; and a second interlayer insulating layer between the first interlayer insulating layer and the bank layer, wherein the bank layer is directly on the second interlayer insulating layer.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, addressing issues related to structural integrity and manufacturing efficiency. The device includes a first substrate, a bank layer defining pixel regions, and an organic light-emitting layer within those regions. The bank layer is formed directly on a second interlayer insulating layer, which is itself positioned above a first interlayer insulating layer. The first interlayer insulating layer is situated between the first substrate and the second interlayer insulating layer. This layered structure enhances electrical insulation, prevents short circuits, and improves the uniformity of the organic light-emitting layer deposition. The bank layer's direct contact with the second interlayer insulating layer ensures precise pixel definition while maintaining structural stability. The interlayer insulating layers provide additional protection against moisture and contaminants, extending the display's lifespan. This configuration also simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of process steps and improving alignment accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in high-resolution OLED displays where pixel density and reliability are critical.
17. The display device of claim 16 , wherein the groove penetrates the second interlayer insulating layer to expose an upper surface of the first interlayer insulating layer, and a depth of the groove is greater than a height of the first inner bank.
A display device includes a substrate with a first interlayer insulating layer and a second interlayer insulating layer stacked thereon. A first inner bank is formed on the first interlayer insulating layer, and a groove is formed in the second interlayer insulating layer. The groove penetrates the second interlayer insulating layer, exposing an upper surface of the first interlayer insulating layer. The depth of the groove is greater than the height of the first inner bank. This configuration allows for improved structural integrity and electrical isolation in the display device. The first inner bank defines a light-emitting region, and the groove ensures proper separation between conductive layers, preventing short circuits. The second interlayer insulating layer provides insulation between the substrate and upper conductive layers, while the groove exposes the first interlayer insulating layer to facilitate connections or additional processing steps. This design is particularly useful in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays where precise layer alignment and insulation are critical for performance and reliability. The groove's depth ensures that the first inner bank remains fully enclosed, preventing material leakage or contamination during subsequent fabrication steps.
18. The display device of claim 17 , wherein a lower surface of the groove is flat.
A display device includes a substrate with a groove formed on its surface. The groove has a flat lower surface, which provides structural stability and uniformity in the display panel. The groove is designed to accommodate components such as wiring, sensors, or other electronic elements, ensuring proper alignment and functionality. The flat lower surface of the groove prevents uneven stress distribution and improves the overall durability of the display device. This design is particularly useful in flexible or foldable displays, where maintaining structural integrity under repeated bending or flexing is critical. The groove may also facilitate precise assembly of layers within the display, reducing defects and enhancing performance. The flat lower surface ensures consistent contact between the groove and any components placed within it, improving electrical and mechanical connections. This feature is part of a broader display device structure that includes a flexible substrate and multiple functional layers, all optimized for high-resolution imaging and reliable operation in various environmental conditions. The flat groove design minimizes potential points of failure, such as cracks or delamination, which could degrade display quality over time.
19. The display device of claim 16 , wherein a lower surface of the groove contacts an upper surface of the second interlayer insulating layer, and a depth of the groove is substantially equal to a height of the first inner bank.
DISPLAY DEVICE. This disclosure pertains to display devices and specifically to the construction and arrangement of insulating layers and structural elements within the device. The problem addressed involves controlling the precise placement and insulation of conductive elements within the display, particularly in relation to intervening insulating layers. A display device comprises a substrate. A second interlayer insulating layer is positioned on the substrate. A groove is formed within the second interlayer insulating layer. A lower surface of this groove makes contact with an upper surface of the second interlayer insulating layer. A first inner bank is also present. The depth of the groove is substantially equal to the height of the first inner bank. This specific geometric relationship between the groove and the bank, along with their contact with the insulating layer, is critical for achieving a desired structural and electrical configuration within the display device, potentially facilitating the accurate placement of subsequent components or preventing unintended electrical pathways.
20. The display device of claim 17 , wherein the light emitting element is located on the same layer as the second interlayer insulating layer.
21. The display device of claim 19 , wherein the lower surface of the groove has a curved shape.
A display device includes a substrate with a groove formed on its surface. The groove has a lower surface with a curved shape, which may be concave or convex. The groove is configured to receive a light-emitting element, such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), to improve light extraction efficiency and reduce optical losses. The curved lower surface of the groove helps to redirect light emitted by the light-emitting element, enhancing the overall brightness and uniformity of the display. The groove may also include sidewalls that are angled or tapered to further optimize light emission. The display device may be part of a larger system, such as a smartphone, tablet, or television, where efficient light extraction is critical for performance. The curved groove design addresses the problem of light trapping within the substrate, which can reduce display brightness and energy efficiency. By modifying the groove's lower surface, the device achieves better light extraction while maintaining structural integrity.
22. The display device of claim 13 , wherein the first side surface and the second side surface are respectively recessed toward midpoints of lower portions of the first inner bank and the second inner bank, to have a curved shape.
This invention relates to display devices, specifically addressing the issue of improving the structural integrity and optical performance of display panels, particularly in flexible or foldable displays. The device includes a substrate with a display area and a non-display area, where the display area has a plurality of pixels formed by light-emitting elements. The display device further includes a first inner bank and a second inner bank that define a pixel region, with the first inner bank having a first side surface and the second inner bank having a second side surface. The first and second side surfaces are recessed inward toward the midpoints of the lower portions of the respective inner banks, forming a curved shape. This design helps to enhance the uniformity of light emission and reduces the risk of defects during manufacturing, such as material accumulation or uneven deposition. The curved recesses also improve the mechanical stability of the banks, particularly in flexible displays where bending stress is a concern. The overall structure ensures better pixel isolation while maintaining high optical efficiency and reliability.
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August 21, 2020
April 12, 2022
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